RLR Interview with Anne Hendershott: How Cultural Shifts are Reshaping Major American Institutions

This week on Respect Life Radio, host Deacon Geoff Bennett welcomed sociologist and author Anne Hendershott for a timely conversation on how cultural shifts are reshaping major American institutions. Drawing from her recent Crisis Magazine article, Hendershott discussed how many universities have adopted conflict-averse, process-driven leadership styles that weaken mission clarity and academic rigor. She contrasted this trend with faithful Catholic colleges that are flourishing precisely because they remain grounded in clear identity, truth and moral formation. Hendershott emphasized that strong institutions require courage, conviction and leadership willing to uphold objective truth rather than cultural consensus. The conversation also previewed themes from her Spectator article examining what she describes as a “feminized” institutional culture within policing. She argued that leadership shaped by emotional display and avoidance of authority can undermine public trust and effectiveness. Across education and public service, Hendershott highlighted how cultural norms influence institutional behavior and outcomes. The episode challenged listeners to reflect on the importance of mission-driven leadership and the role of faith in restoring strength, clarity and purpose in society. To learn read these article and other works by Anne visit: https://crisismagazine.com/author/anne-hendershott